Fault code P0A1E is called “Starter/Generator Control Module Malfunction” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0A1E
The OBD-II fault code P0A1E is a general fault code, which is defined as “starter/generator control module fault”. In this case, the error indicates that there is no communication with the starter/generator control module.
The alternator is designed to generate the current needed by the vehicle at a given time. This is accomplished by a circuit in the control module that estimates the total power consumption.
The alternator voltage measurement circuit is designed to monitor the alternator and battery voltage while the vehicle is running. The alternator output voltage must be at the proper level.
The alternator must compensate for the consumption of battery charge from electrical components, including the starter, lights, and various accessories. In addition, the voltage regulator must deliver power output to provide enough voltage to charge the battery.
This fault in the vehicle is related to the starter/generator control circuitry. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a missing signal in the starter/generator control circuit, code P0A1E will be set.
When the error occurs, the battery warning lamp may illuminate, and the engine check lamp, or both.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0A1E has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a fault).
- The battery check lamp illuminates.
- Some gauges or sensors on the instrument panel may be inactive.
- The engine does not crank well on startup.
- Trouble starting the engine.
If error P0A1E appears, the engine may not start, so this code should be considered serious. Therefore, it is better to correct this error as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0A1E can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Faulty alternator.
- Faulty voltage regulator.
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness.
- Loose or damaged connectors.
- Poor grounding is a common cause.
- Blown fuse or fusible link.
- Low charge level or fully discharged battery.
- Loose or damaged timing belt.
- Defective battery.
- Sometimes faulty PCM or programming error is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0A1E
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0A1E:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P0A1E appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if the malfunction appears again.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the electrical wiring and control module connector.
- Visually inspect and test the alternator.
- If necessary, repair or replace the alternator and any defective wires.
- Check the voltage regulator and battery pack.
- Pay attention to the timing belt.
- If there are no defects, check the PCM itself and its program part.
Diagnose and repair of problems
When a P0A1E error code occurs, other errors may sometimes be present. Associated codes usually refer to abnormal system voltages. And also to performance range mismatch codes, which may refer to various sensors.
If there are no additional codes, the first thing to do is to check the battery to determine its state of charge and overall performance. If the battery is discharged or damaged, recharge or replace it.
Checking the wiring
After checking the battery, visually inspect all wiring associated with the alternator. If necessary, repair or replace to ensure effective load transfer.
If no visible signs of shorts or other damage are found, use a voltmeter to check the resistance and ground. Replace if necessary to ensure that all electrical values are within the limits specified by the manufacturer.
Also locate any fuses that are in any way connected to the charging system. After checking, replace any damaged or suspect fuses.
Testing the alternator
If all the wiring is checked, you need to test the alternator itself with a multimeter. In most cases it is the faulty alternator that causes the P0A1E error.
If the defect in the alternator is confirmed, replace it with a new or rebuilt alternator, as this is almost always more cost-effective than a repair. However, make sure that the unit being replaced is identical to the original in all respects, including mounting brackets and specifications.
After replacement, start the engine and watch the indicator light on the dashboard to make sure the alternator is working properly. The warning light should go out within a few seconds.
If the charging lamp does not come on, it may be the cause of the error. Therefore, you need to test and troubleshoot the alternator check lamp.
You can also measure the system voltage, it should be between 14.2 and 14.8 volts. Allow the vehicle to run at least one full drive cycle before rescanning the system. Most likely there will be no P0A1E error, but sometimes additional clearing with the scan tool is necessary.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0A1E can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Nissan (Serena)
- Peugeot (308)
Fault code P0A1E can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0A1A, P0A1D, P0A1F.
